a love of reading is caught, not taught

look for more resources in the blog under categories: Aboriginal Resources

Nonfiction:

In these two nonfiction series, each book focuses on a specific Canadian aboriginal group. They include many text features that make the information very accessible and interesting to use. The first series, “Aboriginal Peoples of Canada,” is great, because the information is chunked into small bits. Unfortunately, this series is now out of print. The French version is still in print, but does not have all the nations, such as Haida and Salish.

The second series, “Aboriginal Canadian Communities,” was just published and is a higher reading level.

Nicola Campbell, Interior Salish and Metis, is a local Canadian author who has written two significant picture books about young siblings who are forced to go to residential school. Contributor to the Looking Forward Looking Back project.

“Secret of the Dance,” is great read aloud, introducing students to Potlatchs and the banning of them in Canada. Co-authored by Afred Scow, of the Kwicksutaineuk Nation, and Andrea Spalding.

Do a read aloud, novel study, or info circles

Choose from these autobiographical titles and do a read aloud. Or use one of the books as part of an information circle (a lit circle using nonfiction resources).

“Fatty Legs” is the true story of Margaret Pokiak-Fenton, a young Inuit girl who goes to Residential School. Perfect for literature circles or a read aloud. The sequel, “A Stranger at Home,”is about Margaret’s difficult return to her home.

“When I Was Eight,” and, “Not My Girl,” are picture book versions of the novels, perfect for younger students or students who lower reading levels.